Commanders start the season off strong with a win. Here’s what to expect

by Kobey Ronk, September 09, 2025

The Washington Commanders started the season off strong with a win against a faulty New York Giants. After leading by 1 score going into the fourth, Deebo Samuels was able to connect on a 19 yard rush for six. This would end up sealing the win for Washington 21 to New York’s 6. New York could not get the ball rolling during the game. Without a touchdown to spare, New York has not won in the opening week since 2022. Russell Wilson looked like his recent self, connecting for 17 out of 37 and only passing for 168 yards. This is not entirely his fault however, as the Commanders defense was swarming the New York front line all day. Daron Payne and Dorance Armstrong of Washington connected for 1 sack a piece.

Meanwhile Bobby Wagner and Frankie Luvu lead the team in total tackles with 10 and 7 respectively. The Commanders gained recognition for their flashy offense last year. What was expected to be a mediocre season for Washington led to an NFC Championship berth thanks to Jayden Daniels, Terry McLaurin, and company. The offense did not look as flashy today. On the receiving end, Deebo Samuels Sr. started with a strong debut donning the Commanders jersey, with 77 yards on 7 receptions. In terms of the running game, Jacory “Bill” Croskey-Merritt made his rookie debut with 10 carries for 82 yards.

Terry McLaurin, expecting to have a big game after signing his much awaited deal with Washington, was locked up for the majority of the game. McLaurin was only able to connect on 2 receptions for 27 yards. Clock management plagued Washington during the games, a flash to one of last year’s issues. Commanders had to waste timeouts due to not being ready in time for the snap.

Amidst some of the questions about this game, it is only Week 1 Washington. The Commanders are coming off one of their best seasons in the last 20 years. Still having Jayden Daniels on his rookie deal, Washington did the smart thing and signed veterans to help fill their gaps. The addition of Deebo is proving to be a good decision. Bobby Wagner had a strong defensive debut. Laremy Tunsil will prove to be an asset on the offensive line. The Commanders do not have an easy schedule by any means.

The Giants are the Giants, but with Dallas and Philadelphia still in the division, it will be a tough path to win the division crown. This is topped on with 4 games against the AFC west. 3 of those teams having made the playoffs last year. Mix in a date with the NFC north, again having 3 teams that made the playoffs last year, the commanders will have to address their gaps early if they want to win games this season. Jayden Daniels showed no signs of a sophomore slump yet. Terry McLaurin did not get many reps in camp or the pre-season, but we all know the wide receiver he is and will continue to be.

Even if he ruined my same game parlay, I am confident he will continue to be the franchise receiver he always has been. The defense was the biggest question last season, but they came to play today. Marshon Lattimore shut down the Giants #1 receiver in Nabers, the defensive pieces seem to have come together today. Washington Fans should be excited going into this year. Coming off a year like last year, the expectations are high, especially when you are slotted for 6 primetime games and a game in Spain. Even if you have the worst stadium in the league, you have a bright, young quarterback paired with veteran receivers and a reliable defense. The Commanders still sit as the 2nd favorite to win the NFC East at +170. These are great odds if you’re still looking for division winners. This is especially considering that no same team has won the NFC East in back to back seasons since 2005.